The Science of Myopia Progression:
Why Does It Get Worse Over Time?
If you or your child is nearsighted, you may have noticed that the prescription for glasses or contact lenses tends to increase over time. This condition, known as myopia, affects more than 30% of people in the U.S. and is becoming even more prevalent worldwide. But why does myopia tend to progress, and what can be done to slow it down? Let’s explore the science behind myopia progression.
What Causes Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long or when the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurry vision for distant objects. The condition typically develops in childhood and often progresses until the eye stops growing in the late teens or early twenties.
Since COVID-19, children are spending more time indoors & using screens, leading to an unprecedented increase in myopia cases. When we spend so much time looking up close at screens or near objects, our eyeball physically changes, elongating. This is especially detrimental to children under 12 who have more growth hormones, causing the problem to get worse and worse, with lifelong consequences. Hear more about myopia and how it can impact children on NPR’s Ted Radio Hour.
More than 40% of Americans are nearsighted today, up from 25% in 1971. Researchers believe that if left untreated, by 2050 more than 50% of the world will suffer from this correctible vision problem.
Why Does Myopia Get Worse?
- Eye Growth
Myopia progression is largely tied to the growth of the eye. In children, the eye grows as part of their overall physical development. For children with myopia, this growth can cause the eye to become too elongated, worsening the condition. - Visual Environment
The way we use our eyes significantly impacts myopia progression. Increased screen time, reduced outdoor activity, and long periods of close-up work (like reading or using a tablet) are all associated with faster myopia progression. Studies suggest that natural sunlight may help regulate eye growth, making outdoor play a protective factor. - Genetics
If one or both parents are myopic, their children are more likely to develop myopia as well. However, genetics alone doesn’t fully explain the current rise in myopia rates, which suggests environmental factors play a significant role. - Axial Elongation
A key driver of worsening myopia is axial elongation—the eye growing too long from front to back. This not only causes an increase in the strength of the glasses or contact lens prescription needed but can also increase the risk of other eye health issues, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma, later in life.
Why Early Intervention Matters
The earlier we address myopia progression, the more we can do to reduce its long-term impact. Left unchecked, high myopia increases the risk of serious eye diseases. Early intervention and regular eye exams are critical to protecting vision and overall eye health.
The goal of myopia management isn’t just to improve current vision—it’s to protect eye health for a lifetime.
By addressing myopia early, you can help your child or yourself avoid the life-altering complications of advanced eye diseases.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the science of myopia progression helps us recognize the importance of proactive care. Whether through lifestyle changes, advanced treatment options, or regular monitoring by an eye care professional, there are effective ways to manage myopia and protect long-term vision.
At Brighter Outlook Vision, we’re passionate about preventing myopia from becoming a lifelong challenge. Our comprehensive myopia management program combines cutting-edge treatments (like a corneal topography and a biometry to measure axial length) with personalized care to ensure your family enjoys clear, healthy vision now and in the future.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule a call to discuss myopia management options and learn how we can help safeguard your vision or your child’s vision for years to come. Together, we’ll build a brighter future.
